With 1:32 remaining in Game 4 of the playoff series between the Los Angeles Lakers and New Orleans Hornets, Kobe Bryant rolled his left ankle while pursuing Hornets guard Willie Green.
Lakers Vs. Hornets, Game 4: Kobe Bryant Rolls Ankle In Loss
Kobe appeared to be in visible pain, though he attempted to walk it off during the Lakers’ timeout.
According to Mike Trudell, Kobe told replacement Shannon Brown that he was not going to leave the game but he had to per league rules on injuries. Coach Phil Jackson has to whitle and wave in Bryant's direction in order to make sure he went to the bench. Kobe checked back into the game moments later.
Also according to Trudell, Phil Jackson said he doesn't know how Kobe's ankle is and that it was in "an ice bucket" following the game. According to Phil, the turn wasn't as bad as Kobe's ankle turn against the Mavericks in March.
Expect some official word Monday morning but don’t think for a second that Kobe Bryant is going to let an ankle sprain keep him out of Game 5.
Be sure to check out our Lakers vs. Hornets hub for full series coverage. For more on the Hornets, visit At The Hive. For more on the Lakers, visit Silver Screen And Roll and SB Nation Los Angeles.
Image via mocksession.com
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